

hikes in Stanislaus National Forest
Encompassing the entirety of the Emigrant Wilderness and portions of the Carson-Iceberg Wilderness and the Mokelumne Wilderness, there is an extensive network of backcountry routes for you to enjoy. So whether you are seeking a relaxing nature walk along the Clavey River or a technical climb up Sonora Mountain—the Stanislaus National Forest delivers. Explore the area’s diversity of flora and fauna, and revel in the beauty of the Sierra Nevada in the Stanislaus National Forest.
The 10 Best Hiking Routes in the Stanislaus National Forest
As self-proclaimed hiking aficionados, we have curated a list of the greatest hikes in the Stanislaus National Forest, from high country treks to enchanting forest trails—we’ve got you covered. Check out our favorite hikes!
- Kennedy Meadows to Relief Reservoir Trail - There is no question as to why the Kennedy Meadows to Relief Reservoir Trail is at the top of most hiking ranks in the Stanislaus National Forest. Wander past several waterfalls, natural pools, and granite rock formations to the reservoir and dam—this trek is unparalleled in its beauty.
- Highland Lakes Loop - Indulge yourself in the stunning views of two shimmering alpine lakes and the imposing Sierra Nevada Mountains along the Highland Lakes Loop. This short but scenic hike exposes mesmerizing vistas and offers ideal fishing opportunities.
- God’s Bath Clavey River Trail - The God’s Bath Clavey River Trail is an epic expedition that delivers waterfalls, rock sculptures, and swimming holes. This adventure is best enjoyed in the summer months when the alpine waters are refreshing and not frigid.
- Lake Alpine Trail - Explore the picturesque alpine reservoir along the Lake Alpine Trail. This fun-family adventure boasts beautiful scenes of the shimmering waters, bounding forestlands, and looming granite peaks.
- Boulder Lake Hike - Yet another alpine lake to indulge in. The Boulder Lake Hike is a secluded trail hidden in the High Sierra that wanders through dense woodlands before opening to the alpine pool flanked by the craggy cliffs of Boulder Peak.
- Hyatt Lake Trail - The Hyatt Lake Trail is an incredible hike through unique terrains. Put your navigational skills to the test as you venture the unmarked granite landscape to the picture-perfect granite basin. If you are seeking an exciting excursion, this is the perfect adventure for you.
- Arnold Rim Trail - Leading hikers through diverse topographies, the Arnold Rim Trail provides a stimulating experience. Ideal for intermediate adventurers, this trail travels through a forest of cedar, pine, fir, and oak to the cascading waterfall.
- Cleo’s Bath Hike - Hike up to a hidden swimming hole on the Stanislaus River along the Cleo’s Bath Hike. This scenic excursion travels along the shoreline of Pinecrest Lake before escaping into the river valley.
- Calaveras North Grove Trail - Explore the Calaveras Big Trees State Park as you venture the family-friendly Calavera North Grove Trail. This amazing nature walk guides adventures through a sea of giant sequoias. This grove is amongst the most secluded and underrated in the state– dance atop the stump of the largest known sequoia!
- Calaveras South Grove Trail - The Calaveras South Grove Trail is another impressive adventure through a grove of giant sequoias. This adventure boasts incredible views of the impressive conifers that adorn the landscape.
When is the Best Time to Visit the Stanislaus National Forest?
The Stanislaus National Forest is a wonderful wilderness area that can be enjoyed year-round. Both the summer and winter months offer numerous outdoor pursuits to partake in, satisfying adventurers of all calibers. Though accessible and lively year-round, the summer is undoubtedly the most popular time of the year to visit the Stanislaus National Forest.
The warmer months boast incredible hiking as the vegetation is lush, wildflowers have bloomed, snowmelt streams surge, and most of the high-altitude trails are clear of snow! Offering favorable hiking conditions, the summer months warrant a busier, more crowded experience. Winter trips are full of wonderment but also limitations. Many roads become impassable, and campgrounds are closed after snowfall. On the bright side, winter escapes are far more tranquil. Most suggest visiting in the shoulder seasons—spring and autumn— to seize the warmer weather and beat the crowds!
Other Outdoor Activities in the Stanislaus National Forest
Offering an extensive network of routes, the Stanislaus National Forest is obviously a hiker’s paradise—but it is not limited solely to hiking adventures. Decorated with a myriad of alpine lakes, river valleys, snow-capped crests, and lush forestlands, the outdoor pursuits here are abundant!
Water adventures are a popular recreational activity in the warmer months! Whitewater raft or kayak down the Tuolumne River, paddleboard and sun along the shores of the Pinecrest Lake, or fish in the waters of the Highland Lakes. The summer and autumn also see plenty of mountain bikers and off-roaders heading out to explore the backcountry!
When fall turns to winter, and the terrain becomes cloaked in snow, many hiking routes are transformed into wonderful cross-country skiing and snowshoeing tracks for intrepid adventurers to explore. Additionally, there are several snowmobiling routes interspersed throughout the forest and two ski resorts to enjoy: Dodge Ridge and Bear Valley.
No matter the season, no matter the weather, there is an adventure awaiting you in the Stanislaus National Forest, so what are you waiting for?
Frequently Asked Questions About the Stanislaus National Forest
What is the Stanislaus National Forest known for?
The Stanislaus National Forest is most famously known for its natural beauty—from looming crests to alpine lakes and lush forestlands.
Are dogs allowed in the Stanislaus National Forest?
Yes, dogs on leash are allowed on most developed recreation sites and trails. Refer to the bulletins at the trailhead and lakes for restrictions and posted instructions.
Do you need a pass to visit the Stanislaus National Forest?
Day entry into the Stanislaus National Forest is free, but all overnight expeditions require a wilderness permit.
When is the Stanislaus National Forest open?
The Stanislaus National Forest is open year-round, but many main roads and campgrounds close seasonally from December to April.
Can you swim in Pinecrest Lake?
Yes, Pinecrest Lake, within the Stanislaus National Forest, is a popular spot for swimming.
Epic Adventure Tours in the Stanislaus National Forest
Unfortunately, we have yet to organize an adventure package for the Stanislaus National Forest but keep an eye out as we are always working on adding more exciting tours to the collection! Until then, we urge you to check out our Sierra Nevada Tours, which include awesome expeditions into the High Sierra.
Find Other Amazing Hiking Regions in California
The Stanislaus National Forest is a beautiful landscape characterized by soaring mountains, alpine lakes, lush forests, granite gardens, and serrated river valleys. Covering 898,099 acres of wilderness at various altitudes- from 1500ft to over 11000ft- the area’s topographic diversity offers an incredible natural playground. Located along the western slope of the Sierra Nevada between Lake Tahoe and the Yosemite National Forest, the Stanislaus National Forest boasts a more sequestered but equally beautiful experience in California.
Read MoreThe best hikes in Stanislaus National Forest

01. Kennedy Meadows to Relief Reservoir Trail
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The Kennedy Meadows to Relief Reservoir Trail is arguably one of the most scenic adventures… Read More

02. Highland Lakes Loop
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Indulge yourself in mesmerizing views of the high country along the Highland Lakes Loop. Secluded… Read More

03. God’s Bath Clavey River Trail
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Hidden local gem turned popular tourist destination—the God’s Bath Clavey River Trail is an incredible… Read More

04. Lake Alpine Trail
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Hidden high in the Sierra Nevada is the Lake Alpine Trail. This fun family adventure… Read More

05. Boulder Lake Hike
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Exhibiting the grandeur and beauty of the high country, exploring the Boulder Lake Hike boasts… Read More

06. Hyatt Lake Trail
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The Hyatt Lake Hike is an epic off-trail adventure in the Stanislaus National Forest. The… Read More

07. Arnold Rim Trail
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Leading you through diverse topographies, boasting incredible scenes, and a good workout, the Arnold Rim… Read More

08. Cleo’s Bath Hike
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The Cleo’s Bath Hike is an awesome alpine adventure that can be enjoyed by intermediate… Read More

09. Calaveras South Grove Trail
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A trip to the Calaveras Big Trees State Park is well worth the detour. Located… Read More

10. Calaveras North Grove Trail
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The Calaveras Big Trees State Park is undoubtedly one of the most underrated adventure destinations… Read More
Yes, there are more than 10
Stanislaus National Forest is so beautiful that we can not give you only 10 hikes. So here is a list of bonus hikes in Stanislaus National Forest that you should take a look at as well

11. Dardanelles Pack Trail
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The Dardanelles Pack Trail is an amazing adventure in the Stanislaus National Forest. Immerse yourself… Read More

12. Highland Lakes Campground to Arnot Creek Hike
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The Highland Lakes Campground to Arnot Creek Hike packs a punch! Featuring breathtaking views, picture-perfect… Read More

13. Bull Run Lake Trail
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Immerse yourself in the high country and indulge in the best that the Stanislaus National… Read More

14. Mosquito Lakes to Bull Run Lake Hike
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Leading hikers past not one, not two but three alpine lakes, the Mosquito Lakes to… Read More

15. Cougar Rock Loop Hike
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The Cougar Rock Loop Hike is unparalleled in its beauty, leading adventurers through lush woodlands… Read More

16. Lyons Reservoir Hike
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The Lyons Reservoir Hike is an awesome trail that boasts an adventure for all types… Read More

17. Gianelli Trail to Chewing Gum Lake Hike
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The Gianelli Trail to Chewing Gum Lake Hike is an underrated adventure in the Stanislaus… Read More

18. Herring Creek and Waterhouse Lake Hike
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Immerse yourself in the backcountry along the Herring Creek and Waterhouse Lake Hike. This awesome… Read More

19. Diana Falls Trail
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If you're in the area, the Diana Falls Trail is an excellent quick hike. This… Read More

20. Pinecrest Lake Loop
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Shoreline walks are truly unbeatable. The Pinecrest Lake offers an incredible experience, guiding adventures through… Read More

21. Sonora Peak Hike
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Hike up to the summit of the Stanislaus National Forests’ highest peak along the Sonora… Read More

22. Bear Lake via Emigrant Wilderness Loop
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Immerse yourself in the high country along the Bear Lake via Emigrant Wilderness Loop. This… Read More

23. Crabtree Trail to Bear Lake
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The Crabtree Trail to Bear Lake is a beautiful hike within the bounds of the… Read More

24. San Antonio Creek Falls Trail
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There is nothing better than a hike that culminates at a waterfall, and the San… Read More

25. Chewing Gum Lake Loop
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We know what you are thinking—no, the lake is not full of chewing gum, nor… Read More

26. Lake Alpine and Duck Lake Loop
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Hidden in the high country is the Lake Alpine and Duck Lake Loop. This incredible… Read More

27. Sourgrass 4x4 Trail
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Immerse yourself in the lush woodlands of the Stanislaus National Forest as you venture the… Read More

28. Relief Reservoir Trail
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The Relief Reservoir Trail is one of the most scenic adventures in the Stanislaus National… Read More

29. Preston Falls Trail
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The Preston Falls Trail is a secluded adventure in the Stanislaus National Forest that boasts… Read More

30. Mount Reba Hike
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The Mount Reba Hike boasts amazing scenery of the High Sierra. Marvel at the beauty… Read More

31. Mount Reba via Lake Alpine Hike
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The Mount Reba via Lake Alpine Hike is an epic excursion that boasts breathtaking views… Read More

32. Voyager Rock to Hobler Lake Hike
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The Voyager Rock to Hobler Lake Hike is an awesome adventure that boasts a peaceful,… Read More

33. Wheeler Lake Hike
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The Wheeler Lake Hike is an awesome adventure in the Stanislaus National Forest that guides… Read More

34. Waterhouse Lake Trail
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Reconnect with nature and let the amazing views of the granite bluffs adorned with towering… Read More

35. West Side Railroad Trail
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The West Side Railroad Trail would be an excellent addition to your Stanislaus National Forest… Read More

36. Pinecrest Peak Trail
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The Pinecrest Peak Trail is an epic excursion in the high country. The picturesque views… Read More

37. Grouse Lake via Emigrant Wilderness Loop
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The Grouse Lake via Emigrant Wilderness Loop is an excellent adventure for those seeking an… Read More

38. Inspiration Point via Lake Alpine Hike
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The Inspiration Point via Lake Alpine Hike is a fun family adventure hidden high in… Read More

39. Sugar Pine Railway Trail
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The Sugar Pine Railway Trail is a fun family adventure in the Stanislaus National Forest… Read More

40. Burst Rock Hike
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The Burst Rock Hike is an awesome adventure that families and novice hikers alike can… Read More

41. Duck Lake Loop
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The Duck Lake Loop is a wonderful adventure that the whole family can enjoy. The… Read More

42. Hermit Valley Hike
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Leading adventurers through Hermit Valley, along the North Fork Mokelumne River, the Hermit Valley Hike… Read More

43. Y Meadow Lake Trail
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Why hike the Y Meadow Lake Trail? Well, the Y Meadow Lake Trail is an… Read More

44. Columbia Ditch Trail
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The Columbia Ditch Trail is an enchanting adventure through the woodlands and along the canal,… Read More

45. Pinecrest Lake and Pinecrest Peak Loop
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The alpine terrain is just waiting to be explored, and the Pinecrest Lake and Pinecrest… Read More

46. Trail of the Gargoyles Hike
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The Trail of the Gargoyles Hike is a scenic adventure in the Stanislaus National Forest… Read More

47. Arnold Rim Trail: San Domingo Section
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The beauty of a one-way trail is that there is a new scene to indulge… Read More

48. Arnot Creek Trail
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The Arnot Creek Trail is an unassumingly beautiful adventure through the tree-burned valley bounded by… Read More

49. Herring Creek Lane and Pinecrest Lake Loop
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The Herring Creek Lane and Pinecrest Lake Loop is a wonderful adventure in the Stanislaus… Read More

50. Eagle Meadow Hike
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Hiking the Eagle Meadow Trail makes for a unique experience. Hike amongst equestrians through the… Read More

51. Long Gulch Ridge Loop
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Adventure the Long Gulch Ridge Loop for an exciting, scenic experience in the Stanislaus National… Read More

52. Folger Peak Hike
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The Folger Peak Hike is an awesome adventure that boasts 360-degree, panoramic vistas of the… Read More
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